Official MLBlog of the Kansas City Royals front office.

Ned Yost media session: July 29, 2014

The Royals made a trade on their off day, sending Danny Valencia to Toronto, which changes two positions on the roster. Ned Yost was asked about the addition catcher Erik Kratz, one of two players acquired in yesterday’s trade, and the recall of infielder Christian Colon, who was at Omaha.

Yost said that Colon provides middle infield depth, which the Royals have not had since Colon was optioned to Omaha on July 11. The former first-round pick can play second, short and third, while Valencia was primarily a third baseman who could play at short or second when the need occurred. Yost said that Kratz is a big guy who can hit with power.

Valencia had played third base against most lefties, which led to the next question: Will Mike Moustakas now play third on a full-time basis? Yost said that it’s a day-to-day situation. His focus is on winning today’s game. He reiterated that Colon is a sound, fundamental player who can defend at all three positions.

Yost said that Jason Vargas threw very well in today’s bullpen session as he progresses in returning from his appendectomy. Yost noted more command and life on Vargas’ pitches. When asked about the lefty returning to the rotation, Yost said that it depends on how he feels the next few days. If he continues to progress, his return could be sooner rather than later.

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